Hair loss in women: Can it be prevented?

Hair loss in women is a topic that’s not openly talked about. And while some might not believe – or even know about – it, many women do suffer from thinning locks or severe hair fall. Although there may be several physical and emotional reasons as to why your mane is thinning, the good news is that we have several tips to help assist healthy hair production – and eventually avoid confidence-blowing hair loss.

5 Tips to help manage hair loss in women

1. Eat an apple a day

Ok, maybe not quite so literally. But eating a balanced diet is absolutely vital for hair growth. So, if you are suffering from hair loss, it’s important to check that it isn’t due to any deficiencies. You know the drill: make sure you’re getting your five-a-day and that your diet is filled with enough iron, zinc, omega-3 and vitamin C, E, and B. Not to mention the all-important protein intake. But why are proteins so essential? Because our hair is made of keratin (a tough protein), meaning that a lack of this nutrient will have a huge hit on our hair production. It also goes without saying that it’s best to avoid crash diets or anything that involves excluding whole food groups.

2. Treat your scalp

It might sound a little odd, but conditions like eczema, psoriasis, dandruff, and even a consistently dry scalp can be contributing factors for hair fall. This is due to the roots of the hair being weakened when excessively scratched, which indirectly causes it to fall out. The best solution? Stop the head-scratching by ruling out any scalp conditions and using mild shampoos, or if need be, anti-dandruff formulas.

3. Check your balance

This is nothing to do with your bank account, but more about making sure that your hormones are balanced. Minimal hormonal rises and falls are normal, but pregnancy and menopause can really throw our hormone levels out of whack, causing hair loss in women. If you suspect you might have a significant imbalance, tackle it by talking to your GP.

4. Keep calm

Easier said than done, we know, but do try and keep your cool. With the long list of modern life’s pressures, rising stress levels come as no surprise – and it’s bad news for your hair production, too. Take away some of your anxieties by considering signing up for activities that might help to relax your body and mind. Taking up hobbies, playing sports and meditating are fun and easy ways to de-stress. And remember: it’s good to talk! So consider meeting up with friends or family regularly to talk through any issues you’re currently facing. A problem shared is a problem halved, right?

5. Be patient

“Patience is a virtue” is probably the most important piece of advice on our list. Although it can be difficult to keep perspective when you’re facing something as distressing as hair loss in women, your body will recover. In the meantime, take on board all the tips we’ve mentioned above and have patience. Even better, consider it your chance to get creative. Try using accessories like scarves and headbands to conceal and disguise thinning areas or patches can help get your confidence levels back up, not to mention it’s fun, too. Looking for some mane inspiration? Malaysian singer Yuna looks amazing and always rocks a pretty cool, colourful headscarf.

Hair loss in women can seem daunting, but with these tips, you can be confident you’re helping to address the issue.